Tire size and suggestions

[911Etarga]

I just bought some 15 by 5.5 steelies, and was wondering what size of tire is best. I want the correct size sidewalls so they look right. What are some good choices?


Thanks!!!!

[Scott Douglas]

I'd look at some 195-65's if I were you.

[rgrimm]

"Best" and "look right"may be two different things.

I can't claim to know the OEM size for a '71, but with the early SWB cars, I find the 195s and 205s to look too wide "for my taste." When it came time to replace the tires on my 15x5.5 chromed steelies on the '68, I did go with the original 165Rx15s. Vredesteins, and they're actually pretty nice tires.

That said, I have a second set of Fuchs, which I run 185s on. But I torn about going any wider than that.

It's the tradeoff between best tire for handling, availabtility of different tires in different sizes, and look. Width is one, but it sounds like you do want to stay with the original sidewall height. There are several sites that can help...perhaps you have one, but I've always liked http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

[gulf908]

The original 1971 tyre spec was a 165 HR 15 but I don't know if this size would either be made these days or would be optimal for a street driver.
Maybe a size smaller than 195 / 65 for a 5.5 wheel ??

Cheers,
Dennis.

[rgrimm]

The 165s can be found. I was looking here:
http://www.universaltire.com/cart.php?target=category&category_id=340

But I actually found my set on sale for about $60/tire! Google can be your friend

[Joe Bob]

I have a 914/6 with steelies that size and I got 185/70s on them.....